Charlemagne de Sauveterre
Established
Roleplay posts: 10
Age: 43
Physical Description: If he straightened his back, Charlemagne would tower above most people at a lofty 6'4". Usually, though, he was leant over, cleaning a counter, or sitting and talking with patrons, or engaging in some manner of physical activity that made him seem less imposing than he really was.
Of course, it was not just his height that set him out as imposing - he had broad shoulders and a well-defined body that defied expectations of a man likely past the halfway point in his life - something that undoubtedly came from time spent in the vineyards.
As one was to look upwards, though, they would see a face etched from toiling in the hot sun. Set in that face were sparkling diamonds, bright blue and filled with an energy that belied the aged weariness with which the vintner seemed to carry himself. Enclosing his face was a shock of auburn hair, which extended down to a short, neat, greying beard.
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Clothes and Equipment: While the wealth he had accumulated through his past business - that enabled him to purchase and renovate the dilapidated vineyard into a winery - was significant to finance a life of extravagance, Charlemagne was not intent on resting on his laurels. Rather, the reason he bought the vineyard was to work on it, and his choice of clothing usually reflected that.
As such, he was regularly clothed in nothing more than a light coat, a linen tunic, and some trousers, the earthy colours masking the dirt that usually coated him. He also kept a short dagger strapped to his waist, ostensibly for trimming back vines.
Registered: Nov 28, 2017 3:01:12 GMT -8
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Post by Charlemagne de Sauveterre on Dec 11, 2017 6:02:53 GMT -8
Château des Oubliés
Historically one of the most successful and favoured vineyards in the known world, Barryneth Estate - as it was then known - fell into disrepair following the death of its caretaker and primary occupant. Owing to the prime position it held towards the very south of the current Isran State, the land had in the past been subject to awkward boundary disputes and ownership ambiguity, in which it was sometimes an independent territory, and sometimes part of Medan, which resulted in it being left to crumble. With the Isran expansion and possession of Medan - now Meridian - Barryneth Estate now fell squarely within established territory, which made it ripe for the pickings of an eager eye, which Charlemagne de Sauveterre certainly had.
After reopening as the Château des Oubliés, or 'Forgotten Palace', grapes had been growing, and wine fermenting for several years now, and it was finally prepared for a grand de-corking of the first bottle, which would be accompanied by a fittingly public celebration.
If one was to travel south and visit the winery, they would come across an isolated, but humming area, with workers constantly found performing the necessary wine-making tasks during the wine-making season. As a guest travelled through the grounds of the estate along the immaculately-maintained roads, they would eventually make their way to the château itself - a sprawling building with a dining hall and dormitories to suit the labourers, and more elegant amenities for patrons. Poor weather was rarely a concern, and guests would soon be able to enjoy a glass of house wine while relaxing in the sun-soaked surroundings.
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Lady Genevieve St. James
Dedicated
Enchantress & Entrepreneur
Roleplay posts: 489
Age: mid-30s.
Physical Description: Her hair is sunshine gold, her skin is peaches and creme, and her eyes are periwinkle, sometimes lilac, sometimes blue. She has a comely body that is not too curvy and not too slim, and a height that is not too tall and not too petite. A beauty mark marks her cheek just below her left eye.
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Clothes and Equipment: Genevieve is always clothed handsomely, although not ornately, and uses good fabrics for her well-fit and well-made clothes. She wears a long necklace, the thin golden chain easily visible but the pendant itself is usually tucked beneath her bodice, unseen. In the well-hidden pockets of the full skirts of her gowns, she usually has odds and ends hidden away.
Allegiances: Isra, Aozora, Gauldin
Registered: Nov 28, 2015 11:03:51 GMT -8
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Post by Lady Genevieve St. James on Dec 15, 2017 21:40:39 GMT -8
A fluttering thing came down the driveway, some few days later from when his letter was delivered to St. James Clothery. Some might have mistaken it for a bird, but as it became closer, it was clearer to see -- it was a letter, neatly rolled, and "flying" by use of the ribbon that kept is confined.
A letter, of course, meant for Mssr. Charlemagne de Sauveterre, written a flowing, elegant, feminine script of a woman with a genteel hand and a noble grace.
To Monsieur de Sauveterre,
Welcome to the Isran Community. My sincerest apologies that this letter was not delivered sooner. I was out of the country, and have only since returned to find your missive.
In short, I thank you for your compliments, and will agree to create a wardrobe worthy of your success... but I would not require money. As you are aware, there is a revolution in full swing within Gauldin, and before the capital city was too far gone for me to continue to have a business there, I assisted in some leaving the city. My plantation grows cotton and farms wool and silk, and while these textiles do, indeed, need helping hands, I have found that I have far too many now.
Will you open your vineyard to my brothers and sisters in refuge? Should you do so, at a fair wage, and a fair living, I would be more than happy to assist in your wardrobe.
With hope, Genevieve St. James
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Charlemagne de Sauveterre
Established
Roleplay posts: 10
Age: 43
Physical Description: If he straightened his back, Charlemagne would tower above most people at a lofty 6'4". Usually, though, he was leant over, cleaning a counter, or sitting and talking with patrons, or engaging in some manner of physical activity that made him seem less imposing than he really was.
Of course, it was not just his height that set him out as imposing - he had broad shoulders and a well-defined body that defied expectations of a man likely past the halfway point in his life - something that undoubtedly came from time spent in the vineyards.
As one was to look upwards, though, they would see a face etched from toiling in the hot sun. Set in that face were sparkling diamonds, bright blue and filled with an energy that belied the aged weariness with which the vintner seemed to carry himself. Enclosing his face was a shock of auburn hair, which extended down to a short, neat, greying beard.
–––
Clothes and Equipment: While the wealth he had accumulated through his past business - that enabled him to purchase and renovate the dilapidated vineyard into a winery - was significant to finance a life of extravagance, Charlemagne was not intent on resting on his laurels. Rather, the reason he bought the vineyard was to work on it, and his choice of clothing usually reflected that.
As such, he was regularly clothed in nothing more than a light coat, a linen tunic, and some trousers, the earthy colours masking the dirt that usually coated him. He also kept a short dagger strapped to his waist, ostensibly for trimming back vines.
Registered: Nov 28, 2017 3:01:12 GMT -8
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Post by Charlemagne de Sauveterre on Dec 17, 2017 21:35:47 GMT -8
Charlemagne de Sauveterre regarded the fluttering little letter that arrived upon his desk with considerable interest. It was not often he received magical letters, so it came as a pleasant surprise - a view that was reinvigorated by his perusal of the contents. He was, in fact, both very pleased and very surprised to receive this letter, being that quite some time had elapsed since he sent his original letter. The topic of the letter further piqued his interest, so he set about writing a note in response on the reverse of the sheets of paper -- what else was he to do with a flying letter? Madamoiselle St James,I am aghast that this is the first I hear of the misfortune of my countrymen, though it is long since I called Gauldin home. Down here, we live in our own world, and news comes rarely, and in little detail.The staff here is oft transient -- young people, usually, looking for employment while they travel the extent of the world and experience Isran life. They ask for little in wages -- enough to eat, for I provide them room and board and unfortunately, I could not, under current circumstances, offer our brothers and sisters in blood very much more. Nonetheless, they can rest assured that there will be a warm place for them to sleep in so long as they work hard.With knowledge of the plight of Gauldin and the Gaulish people, I am struck by a patriotic compulsion to help you, and those you shepherd with all providence. Know that they will be safe and well with me. I look forward to hearing back from you soon.With certainty,Charlemagne de SauveterreCharlemagne smiled wryly as he printed the name clearly, his contrarily masculine, yet equally elegant, writing contrasting that of the clothier on the opposite. With that done, and the paper tied back up, he sort of... tossed the scroll out the window, hoping it would find Lady Genevieve St. James with utmost celerity.
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Lady Genevieve St. James
Dedicated
Enchantress & Entrepreneur
Roleplay posts: 489
Age: mid-30s.
Physical Description: Her hair is sunshine gold, her skin is peaches and creme, and her eyes are periwinkle, sometimes lilac, sometimes blue. She has a comely body that is not too curvy and not too slim, and a height that is not too tall and not too petite. A beauty mark marks her cheek just below her left eye.
· · · · · ·
Clothes and Equipment: Genevieve is always clothed handsomely, although not ornately, and uses good fabrics for her well-fit and well-made clothes. She wears a long necklace, the thin golden chain easily visible but the pendant itself is usually tucked beneath her bodice, unseen. In the well-hidden pockets of the full skirts of her gowns, she usually has odds and ends hidden away.
Allegiances: Isra, Aozora, Gauldin
Registered: Nov 28, 2015 11:03:51 GMT -8
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Post by Lady Genevieve St. James on Dec 18, 2017 17:50:00 GMT -8
The letter caught the breeze and twirled away from him, for a moment seeming as if it was simply just a piece of parchment now, with no enchantment left on it. The ribbon and wax seal that Charlemagne had removed in order to read Genevieve's flowing script wiggled on his desk, shifting over papers as its ribbon-ends seemed to be its hands, before launching itself out the window.
It wrapped itself around the paper, coiling it in a neat scroll before it finally did take off for whatever destination it was sent to. Later that evening, after the sun had fallen and hearths were warm with fire, another returned much in the way the first had arrived.
Monsieur Charlemagne de Sauveterre,
All that you can do will be a help to me, and to Gauldin. I will make sure that the rightful King and Queen of Gauldin know of your assistance in our hour of need.
For all that you have sent very concise desires and measurements, I would still feel more comfortable were we to meet in person before I venture forward to create your garments. I find I am given a better measure of a person when I can see their face.
Will Tuesday next do? Otherwise, I am available Wednesday evening.
Ever grateful, Genevieve St. James.
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Charlemagne de Sauveterre
Established
Roleplay posts: 10
Age: 43
Physical Description: If he straightened his back, Charlemagne would tower above most people at a lofty 6'4". Usually, though, he was leant over, cleaning a counter, or sitting and talking with patrons, or engaging in some manner of physical activity that made him seem less imposing than he really was.
Of course, it was not just his height that set him out as imposing - he had broad shoulders and a well-defined body that defied expectations of a man likely past the halfway point in his life - something that undoubtedly came from time spent in the vineyards.
As one was to look upwards, though, they would see a face etched from toiling in the hot sun. Set in that face were sparkling diamonds, bright blue and filled with an energy that belied the aged weariness with which the vintner seemed to carry himself. Enclosing his face was a shock of auburn hair, which extended down to a short, neat, greying beard.
–––
Clothes and Equipment: While the wealth he had accumulated through his past business - that enabled him to purchase and renovate the dilapidated vineyard into a winery - was significant to finance a life of extravagance, Charlemagne was not intent on resting on his laurels. Rather, the reason he bought the vineyard was to work on it, and his choice of clothing usually reflected that.
As such, he was regularly clothed in nothing more than a light coat, a linen tunic, and some trousers, the earthy colours masking the dirt that usually coated him. He also kept a short dagger strapped to his waist, ostensibly for trimming back vines.
Registered: Nov 28, 2017 3:01:12 GMT -8
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Post by Charlemagne de Sauveterre on Dec 22, 2017 6:10:45 GMT -8
Unlike the previous occurrence, in which Charlemagne was working in his study, which provided an easy point of access for the fluttering parchment to find him, it would have to flap its way through the halls of the main residence on the vineyard, down into the sitting room where the vintner was taking his admittedly-late evening meal. He set aside his cutlery in order to reply with all expedience - his dinner could wait. Madamoiselle,I am glad to be of any aid I possibly can.Unfortunately, I cannot join you in the city. We are too busy with the harvesting and barreling season, and I cannot leave the vineyard. I hope that you can see fit to make your way down to the Château des Oubliés to visit at your convenience, but if you cannot, I understand. As such, I look forward to seeing you when I see you.With anticipation,Charlemagne de SauveterreCharlemagne rebound the ribbon, this time, before releasing the little letter as he did before, hoping Lady Genevieve St. James would receive it as soon as possible.
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Lady Genevieve St. James
Dedicated
Enchantress & Entrepreneur
Roleplay posts: 489
Age: mid-30s.
Physical Description: Her hair is sunshine gold, her skin is peaches and creme, and her eyes are periwinkle, sometimes lilac, sometimes blue. She has a comely body that is not too curvy and not too slim, and a height that is not too tall and not too petite. A beauty mark marks her cheek just below her left eye.
· · · · · ·
Clothes and Equipment: Genevieve is always clothed handsomely, although not ornately, and uses good fabrics for her well-fit and well-made clothes. She wears a long necklace, the thin golden chain easily visible but the pendant itself is usually tucked beneath her bodice, unseen. In the well-hidden pockets of the full skirts of her gowns, she usually has odds and ends hidden away.
Allegiances: Isra, Aozora, Gauldin
Registered: Nov 28, 2015 11:03:51 GMT -8
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Post by Lady Genevieve St. James on Jan 2, 2018 21:35:13 GMT -8
It was a few days more before another enchanted letter made its way to Charlemagne, wherever he was within his vineyard.
Monsieur,
I understand. Allow me to finish business at my estate and within the city of Isra, then I shall come to you. Thank you for your invitation, and I shall meet you soon.
Warm regards, Genevieve St. James.
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Lady Genevieve St. James
Dedicated
Enchantress & Entrepreneur
Roleplay posts: 489
Age: mid-30s.
Physical Description: Her hair is sunshine gold, her skin is peaches and creme, and her eyes are periwinkle, sometimes lilac, sometimes blue. She has a comely body that is not too curvy and not too slim, and a height that is not too tall and not too petite. A beauty mark marks her cheek just below her left eye.
· · · · · ·
Clothes and Equipment: Genevieve is always clothed handsomely, although not ornately, and uses good fabrics for her well-fit and well-made clothes. She wears a long necklace, the thin golden chain easily visible but the pendant itself is usually tucked beneath her bodice, unseen. In the well-hidden pockets of the full skirts of her gowns, she usually has odds and ends hidden away.
Allegiances: Isra, Aozora, Gauldin
Registered: Nov 28, 2015 11:03:51 GMT -8
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Post by Lady Genevieve St. James on Jan 3, 2018 21:26:30 GMT -8
It was yet another few days before a handsome and well-sprung coach came down the winding lane to the Chateau. There were no horses to draw it, yet it seemed to "trot" all the same as if it were pulled by a finely paired team.
The season was crisp, yet not unpleasant, as the Chateau itself was located so far south of Isra that the snows of the city did not reach to the vineyard or the land beyond it. When the carriage stopped, the door opened on it's own, and a beautiful blonde woman of mature years stepped down from the carriage, beautifully dressed in a silhouette that was gracefully snug to her frame.
Her skirt was long and trailed a little behind her, but it was not voluminous, the material naturally falling where it would. She wore a shirt above with pearl buttons that ran from her wrist to her elbow, the sleeves loosened to her shoulders before the blouse became tight and curved to her breasts and torso, pearl buttons mirrored at the high neck. Her blonde hair was artfully gathered, earrings subtly glittering at her lobes. There was a jacket slung over one arm that she was not using, and gloves ensconced her slender hands -- and immediately reached inside the carriage to help a boy of ten and a girl of eight down the steps that had unfolded and onto the hard-packed driveway of the Chateau.
A sense of old world grace was a perfume around the blonde woman, making it easy to believe that she belonged to sophisticated royalty. Even so, there wasn't an ounce of coldness that came from her, and as soon as she took each of the children in hand and came forward to greet whoever was there to greet them, she smiled -- and it was a lovely, lovely thing.
"Bonjour," she said to whoever greeted them. "I am Genevieve St. James and these are my wards, Etienne and Marie Therese Valois." Her voice was warm and inviting. It would take a very hard-hearted person to dislike Genevieve, or either one of the children who bowed or curtsied upon introduction.
Etienne was dark haired and handsome, with untrusting, almost hostile, blue eyes. Marie Therese also had dark hair, but dark red ran through it, making it appear more chestnut than the deep mahogany of her brother. Her gaze was also a crystal clear blue, and she appeared fragile. Both held tightly onto Genevieve's hands, and Etienne's grip on her was almost white-knuckled.
Still, Lady Genevieve did not appear uncomfortable, and called no further attention to herself and the children other than to arrive and patiently wait to be shown to Monsieur Charlemagne.
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Charlemagne de Sauveterre
Established
Roleplay posts: 10
Age: 43
Physical Description: If he straightened his back, Charlemagne would tower above most people at a lofty 6'4". Usually, though, he was leant over, cleaning a counter, or sitting and talking with patrons, or engaging in some manner of physical activity that made him seem less imposing than he really was.
Of course, it was not just his height that set him out as imposing - he had broad shoulders and a well-defined body that defied expectations of a man likely past the halfway point in his life - something that undoubtedly came from time spent in the vineyards.
As one was to look upwards, though, they would see a face etched from toiling in the hot sun. Set in that face were sparkling diamonds, bright blue and filled with an energy that belied the aged weariness with which the vintner seemed to carry himself. Enclosing his face was a shock of auburn hair, which extended down to a short, neat, greying beard.
–––
Clothes and Equipment: While the wealth he had accumulated through his past business - that enabled him to purchase and renovate the dilapidated vineyard into a winery - was significant to finance a life of extravagance, Charlemagne was not intent on resting on his laurels. Rather, the reason he bought the vineyard was to work on it, and his choice of clothing usually reflected that.
As such, he was regularly clothed in nothing more than a light coat, a linen tunic, and some trousers, the earthy colours masking the dirt that usually coated him. He also kept a short dagger strapped to his waist, ostensibly for trimming back vines.
Registered: Nov 28, 2017 3:01:12 GMT -8
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Post by Charlemagne de Sauveterre on Jan 4, 2018 15:04:25 GMT -8
The coach rolled down the manicured paths of the vineyard under the warm sun.
It seemed that the clothier had judged how different the weather would be at the winery - the warmer climes of the south meant there was no snow to be seen, unlike in the city of Isra. Workers dotted the fields, combing the vines for diseases, infestations and imperfections, maintaining the integrity of the plants that looked fresh and alive, despite the cooler season.
When the carriage did inevitably come to a halt at the château itself, it would find, for a moment, that nobody came to receive it. There was a stream of labourers entering and exiting the main building, but they mostly ignored the coach, other than regarding it with a curious intrigue.
Eventually, though, a young, sprightly gentleman exited amidst the flow of people and greeted the trio in the carriage. He was better-dressed than the rest of the workers, and kept a small spyglass tied around his neck.
"Greetings madame," he began, offering a nod to each of the children simultaneously, "and thank you for making haste here as you have. My name is Mathys Picard - I am the château's foreman, and, once the winery itself opens, maître d'hôtel. Monsieur de Sauveterre is inside - please, follow me."
Picard led the visitors inside through a different door that led to the body of the restaurant-hotel portion of the winery, rather than the dormitory and mess hall. He had a Gauldish accent, albeit faded - he had clearly been outside of Gauldin for some time.
"Thank you, mademoiselle, for the work you've done in Gauldin." Picard spoke idly as they travelled through the building to Charlemagne's study. "I am glad to hear that someone is willing and able to help the people of my homeland. Charlemagne is in here."
He pulled open the door, allowing the group to enter. It was quite tall, lined on most sides with bookshelves. A dining table, surrounded by chairs, sat towards one side of the room, made of a similar dark wood to the bookshelves and furnishings. Towards the other side sat a collection of chairs and couches.
It was the centre of the room, though, that demanded attention. A tall, leather wingback chair faced a large crystalline structure that appeared embedded in the wall. It was dusky in appearance, like a smoky quartz, shot with streaks of orange and purple, like a cloudy sunset.
It was from that chair that Charlemagne de Sauveterre spoke as he regarded the crystal.
"Mademoiselle St James? A pleasure." He took a deep breath, as if pondering his next words, whilst the door behind the trio, who presumedly had come in, swung closed. They would not be able to see him from behind the chair. "I suppose I should first admit that I have led you here under false pretenses. It is not clothes that I seek."
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Lady Genevieve St. James
Dedicated
Enchantress & Entrepreneur
Roleplay posts: 489
Age: mid-30s.
Physical Description: Her hair is sunshine gold, her skin is peaches and creme, and her eyes are periwinkle, sometimes lilac, sometimes blue. She has a comely body that is not too curvy and not too slim, and a height that is not too tall and not too petite. A beauty mark marks her cheek just below her left eye.
· · · · · ·
Clothes and Equipment: Genevieve is always clothed handsomely, although not ornately, and uses good fabrics for her well-fit and well-made clothes. She wears a long necklace, the thin golden chain easily visible but the pendant itself is usually tucked beneath her bodice, unseen. In the well-hidden pockets of the full skirts of her gowns, she usually has odds and ends hidden away.
Allegiances: Isra, Aozora, Gauldin
Registered: Nov 28, 2015 11:03:51 GMT -8
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Post by Lady Genevieve St. James on Jan 4, 2018 18:24:59 GMT -8
The children could not help their curiosity as they looked among the land and the workers, scattered about so much as bees. They whispered to each other in Gauldish, bending around Genevieve's figure to speak to each other and to point at what they perceived as odd.
Genevieve was curious as well, but she was more composed in her slow sweeping gaze, her rich blue eyes shaded by her thick lashes touching upon the architecture of the Chateau first. She noticed Mathys' approach before he spoke, and she squeezed the hands of the children to get their attention focused once more.
Her smile blossomed again for Mathys as she nodded her head. "Of course," she murmured, then momentarily turned to look at the carriage. She had to take her hand from Marie Therese's own, and the girl immediately wrapped an arm around Genevieve's white skirt as the enchantress gracefully spun her wrist. A carpet bag came floating out, the carriage door closing on its own, and the carriage itself rolling away so it could make a turn and come to a stop in anticipation of the enchantress' departure from the chateau.
"Come along," she said to Etienne and Marie Therese, once more taking the girl child's hand from her skirts to walk behind Mathys. Neither one of the children seemed willing to leave Genevieve's side, but they were clearly very curious of the place as they came in from the sunlight to walk the halls. Etienne idly undid his jacket, as the crisp winter air outside seemed not to effect the inside of the hotel.
"I wish I could do more," Genevieve said to Mathys in a gentle and quiet voice, not wishing to discuss the Revolucion in depth when Etienne and Marie Therese were near. "But I am so pleased that former natives of Gauldin are willing to open their homes to so many in need, like Monseiur Sauveterre."
Picard opened the door to a study and the threesome (plus the bag) walked in. It smelled of book leather and cleanliness, but Genevieve felt a fissure of alarm that she was talking to the back of the chair. Having so soon returned from a war-torn country, she had found that herself less... inviting... than she had been in the past, and more insulted by small gestures than before as well.
And, of course, the quiet click of the closing door, and the masculine voice that spoke to her --
I suppose I should first admit that I have led you here under false pretenses. It is not clothes that I seek.
-- did not help her feel comfortable at all. The children understood the words as well and pressed closer into Genevieve's skirts. She carefully took her hands from their grip -- just in case -- and settled them, instead, upon their little shoulders.
"Non?" she asked, her voice as gentle as always, but perhaps ringing a little more clearly. "You will then, perhaps, tell me what it is you seek? I am sure you can appreciate that I do not enjoy these games..."
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Charlemagne de Sauveterre
Established
Roleplay posts: 10
Age: 43
Physical Description: If he straightened his back, Charlemagne would tower above most people at a lofty 6'4". Usually, though, he was leant over, cleaning a counter, or sitting and talking with patrons, or engaging in some manner of physical activity that made him seem less imposing than he really was.
Of course, it was not just his height that set him out as imposing - he had broad shoulders and a well-defined body that defied expectations of a man likely past the halfway point in his life - something that undoubtedly came from time spent in the vineyards.
As one was to look upwards, though, they would see a face etched from toiling in the hot sun. Set in that face were sparkling diamonds, bright blue and filled with an energy that belied the aged weariness with which the vintner seemed to carry himself. Enclosing his face was a shock of auburn hair, which extended down to a short, neat, greying beard.
–––
Clothes and Equipment: While the wealth he had accumulated through his past business - that enabled him to purchase and renovate the dilapidated vineyard into a winery - was significant to finance a life of extravagance, Charlemagne was not intent on resting on his laurels. Rather, the reason he bought the vineyard was to work on it, and his choice of clothing usually reflected that.
As such, he was regularly clothed in nothing more than a light coat, a linen tunic, and some trousers, the earthy colours masking the dirt that usually coated him. He also kept a short dagger strapped to his waist, ostensibly for trimming back vines.
Registered: Nov 28, 2017 3:01:12 GMT -8
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Post by Charlemagne de Sauveterre on Jan 4, 2018 23:11:21 GMT -8
Charlemagne moved with a sudden, vicious intensity, moving around the chair so he faced the woman.
If the visitors were to look into his face, they would see a subtle wrongness. The contour of his face was realistic enough, but the finer details seemed... lacking. Blurry. Malleable. Incorrect.
There was no better way to describe it.
"What do I seek...? That question can only be answered once I tell you what I sought. I sought that," Charlemagne said, whirling about to point at the crystal, "and with it, I sought safety. I sought liberty, if only temporary. I sought shelter from the storm. There was nowhere else that I could go and not be found." He sighed, still facing away, his shoulders slumping as if in defeat. His voice echoed around the room, crackling, breaking. "So what do I seek? I seek a chance to talk to you, to talk to you candidly and without fear. You know who I am - or you will, at any rate."
"I have misled you grievously, and for that I am sorry. I'm afraid Charlemagne de Sauveterre - as you or I might know him - is not here. He is, in fact, still touring the faraway lands of Tawakoshi in search of beverages to import, or vines to graft and grow."
"After all," the man said as he slowly turned back to face them, a wry, sad smile on his face as if he were ashamed, "it is there in Tawakoshi that I found him - or should I say, that he found me."
It was not, of course, Charlemagne who stood before them.
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Lady Genevieve St. James
Dedicated
Enchantress & Entrepreneur
Roleplay posts: 489
Age: mid-30s.
Physical Description: Her hair is sunshine gold, her skin is peaches and creme, and her eyes are periwinkle, sometimes lilac, sometimes blue. She has a comely body that is not too curvy and not too slim, and a height that is not too tall and not too petite. A beauty mark marks her cheek just below her left eye.
· · · · · ·
Clothes and Equipment: Genevieve is always clothed handsomely, although not ornately, and uses good fabrics for her well-fit and well-made clothes. She wears a long necklace, the thin golden chain easily visible but the pendant itself is usually tucked beneath her bodice, unseen. In the well-hidden pockets of the full skirts of her gowns, she usually has odds and ends hidden away.
Allegiances: Isra, Aozora, Gauldin
Registered: Nov 28, 2015 11:03:51 GMT -8
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Post by Lady Genevieve St. James on Jan 5, 2018 14:35:30 GMT -8
It was the wrongness of the face that had the children moving a little behind Genevieve, something off about the entire situation that made the boy and girl -- survivors of a terrible war -- clutch deeper into Genevieve's skirts.
Genevieve herself lifted her hands off the children, and felt the buzz of magic in her veins. The man was going off, saying whatever words and incomplete thoughts came to mind. His shoulders slumped, and her gaze narrowed on his back.
The elegant enchantress said nothing, but was prepared to defend to her last breath. When Charlemagne turned around, however--
her heart skipped a beat.
It happened all at once -- the look of surprise, the look of recognition, the widening of her eyes, the relaxing of her shoulders and her posture, her lush mouth gently parting with a gasp that fled from her chest.
"Ryden," she whispered his name, then gave a slight shake of her head. A single strand of golden hair fell from the way it was artfully piled on her head to curve against her face. "Ryden," she said his name more clearly, but couldn't move from where she stood given how the children were clinging to her. "I don't-- I don't understand?" She gestured subtle to their surroundings and took a hesitant step forward.
The little fists of the children burried deeper into her skirts and she looked down at them. "Do not be afraid," Genevieve said to them, sweeping a gentle hand over each of their heads, even as their blue eyes seemed to stare across the room at Ryden Greyiron, Chancellor of Isra. "This man is my..."
Friend? Lover?
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Ryden Greyiron
Dedicated
Chancellor of Isra
Roleplay posts: 226
Age: 42
Physical Description: Taller than most at 6'4, with relatively short, steel-grey hair, and a well-groomed, dignified moustache and beard, Ryden Greyiron would have been considered handsome, once upon a time, and still might be by some, but stress and worry has gotten to him over the years, and more than anything, he looks weary. With well-defined, prominent cheekbones, a strong-set jaw, and a proud nose, he looks every part the stately nobleman he professes to be. His dark blue eyes are filled with a solemn and calculative consideration of everything around him. He has the lean and muscular body of a great swordsman not long out of their prime, and his movements show it - they are graceful, yet dignified, confident and determined.
Clothes and Equipment: Ryden is generally only seen in his engraved armor. His armour is an assembly of intricately engraved detail and runic symbols in equal measures. With his long and flowing grey cloak, he creates a distinctive impression of gravitas in all situations. His preferred weapon, a hand-and-a-half sword, is rather unusual. The hilt is worn and weathered with battle, and seems to be ancient, and yet the blade gleams and shimmers in the slightest of light as though it emerged from the flames of a forge only yesterday. The blade's edge is razor sharp, and appears to have never needed sharpening. His armour and sword both possess a degree of enchantment, but the extent of which is unknown, even to him.
Registered: Apr 30, 2016 16:46:48 GMT -8
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Post by Ryden Greyiron on Jan 7, 2018 4:38:28 GMT -8
It was indeed Ryden Greyiron, Chancellor of Isra.
He held Genevieve's gaze for a moment more, letting her pause hang in the air, before turning his head away and down. He almost looked the same, but for a rough scar, crudely sewn together, that ran down along the left of his jaw. He looked weary, too, like he’d been to Hell and back.
Perhaps he had.
“I’m sorry. Sorry that I had to bring you here like this. But for the time being, that crystal has kept me safe. Kept my secret.”
"I'm sure you remember, but when last we spoke I was in Tawakoshi, on a diplomatic mission. I received your letter while I was there, but failed to see how I could return a message. I don't imagine Gauldin's postal service was functioning, which, I assume, is where you were. As such, I didn’t reply, expecting that I would be able to aid you in your mission when I returned to Isra.”
“Unfortunately, that did not... eventuate in the way I had hoped. Towards the end of my visit I went for a walk through Quying to see what the city looked like in the witching hours. As I walked through the city I was seized, captured, and taken away. I... suffice to say, I have experienced mental and physical pain in my life. Never before to that extent. Never again.”
He sighed again. It was a bitter sigh, sorrowful and angry, accentuating the weariness of his face and his demeanour, reliving times that need not be relived.
“But, after what I place as about a month, they made an error, an error that I exploited to the best of my abilities. That error left me lost, wandering in the middle of a Tawakoshi forest, without food, shelter, or any sense of direction. I wandered that forest for a week, desperately scavenging anything I could find, before good fortune smiled upon me, and I found a trail.”
“Following the trail, I arrived in a small town - a hamlet, really - where by exceptional providence I encountered Charlemagne de Sauveterre, an old friend of mine from days gone by. I explained my predicament to him, and it was he who endowed me with the ability to disguise myself as him, and helped me craft the plan that would see me return to Isra.”
For the first time since he had started telling the story, his stormy, dark blue eyes met her bright cerulean, a strange combination of resolve and fear in them he knew she would be able to see.
“A plan was necessary, for I fear my disappearance was no mere coincidence. The reprehensible vermin that captured me seemed to be lying in wait, and the elite guardsmen that were assigned to me did naught to protect me. I do not want to imply that a conspiracy to cause my death led to my capture, but the evidence seems to indicate that. When I do return to the city, it will have to be emphatic enough that should I go missing again, smoke and mirrors will not deter the people from observing such an absence.”
Ryden screwed up his nose as he closed his eyes, considering his words carefully, for they were the most important and the most likely to change things.
“There is a... more personal reason I brought you here, though... When I pushed myself to walk through the nights along the trail, when I contemplated lying down and awaiting my death instead of getting on my knees and crawling through the forest with what little energy I had left, when I steeled myself against the cut of a blade or the swing of a club, you were one of the thoughts that strengthened my resolve and kept burning my will to live. Your face, your voice, your heart and your mind kept me moving, kept me living. I know it’s not fair to say such a thing - we have only known each other for a short time. But it is true, and I have always felt this compulsion towards you. Even if you walk away from here today, right now — for which I would not blame you, not attempt to impede you — you will have my utmost support in your endeavours, in any capacity I can grant it.”
A new expression overtook his countenance - one of tiredness. Retelling the story that had led him to that moment had driven the already tired man to exhaustion, and he leant on one of the armrests of the wingback chair, breathing heavily and deeply.
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Lady Genevieve St. James
Dedicated
Enchantress & Entrepreneur
Roleplay posts: 489
Age: mid-30s.
Physical Description: Her hair is sunshine gold, her skin is peaches and creme, and her eyes are periwinkle, sometimes lilac, sometimes blue. She has a comely body that is not too curvy and not too slim, and a height that is not too tall and not too petite. A beauty mark marks her cheek just below her left eye.
· · · · · ·
Clothes and Equipment: Genevieve is always clothed handsomely, although not ornately, and uses good fabrics for her well-fit and well-made clothes. She wears a long necklace, the thin golden chain easily visible but the pendant itself is usually tucked beneath her bodice, unseen. In the well-hidden pockets of the full skirts of her gowns, she usually has odds and ends hidden away.
Allegiances: Isra, Aozora, Gauldin
Registered: Nov 28, 2015 11:03:51 GMT -8
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Post by Lady Genevieve St. James on Jan 7, 2018 8:10:19 GMT -8
For all that Ryden appeared so broken, his tale so terrible, the children actually grew more comfortable in his presence. They had seen this before. This pain and misery, and the desperation for happiness -- to lose so much and gain it back -- even at their precious ages, they understood it, knew it, and shared in it with Ryden.
So did Genevieve.
Small hands unwound from her skirts, their bright eyes staring at Ryden and slowly sympathizing.
Genevieve could hardly speak. His experience was horrifying and explained why her own letters to him had not been returned. She never imagined that someone would have done this to him, and guilt began to creep that she hadn't done more, but she shook her head...
... And when he finished speaking, looking at her again with those tired eyes, she crossed the distance and came to him, touching him as her gentle hands cupped his face, --
-- and she kissed him, with a deepness and a thoroughness that seemed so defined -- that she'd chosen him and wanted him, simply and purely, and through all their trials and tribulations and terrors, they couldn't afford to waste anymore time. Her mouth was warm and soft as velvet, her body steady and curved as it brushed against his, a salve to his wounds and a strength that promised she could carry them both for as long as she needed to.
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Ryden Greyiron
Dedicated
Chancellor of Isra
Roleplay posts: 226
Age: 42
Physical Description: Taller than most at 6'4, with relatively short, steel-grey hair, and a well-groomed, dignified moustache and beard, Ryden Greyiron would have been considered handsome, once upon a time, and still might be by some, but stress and worry has gotten to him over the years, and more than anything, he looks weary. With well-defined, prominent cheekbones, a strong-set jaw, and a proud nose, he looks every part the stately nobleman he professes to be. His dark blue eyes are filled with a solemn and calculative consideration of everything around him. He has the lean and muscular body of a great swordsman not long out of their prime, and his movements show it - they are graceful, yet dignified, confident and determined.
Clothes and Equipment: Ryden is generally only seen in his engraved armor. His armour is an assembly of intricately engraved detail and runic symbols in equal measures. With his long and flowing grey cloak, he creates a distinctive impression of gravitas in all situations. His preferred weapon, a hand-and-a-half sword, is rather unusual. The hilt is worn and weathered with battle, and seems to be ancient, and yet the blade gleams and shimmers in the slightest of light as though it emerged from the flames of a forge only yesterday. The blade's edge is razor sharp, and appears to have never needed sharpening. His armour and sword both possess a degree of enchantment, but the extent of which is unknown, even to him.
Registered: Apr 30, 2016 16:46:48 GMT -8
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Post by Ryden Greyiron on Jan 10, 2018 6:03:18 GMT -8
Ryden wrapped his arms across her back, holding her tight in an embrace. He felt the warmth of her body, lithe and graceful, pressed up against him. To his own detriment, he found himself overwhelmed, his eyes welling. It felt placidly comforting and dangerously new, a contradiction most desirable in manner... something he hadn't dare hope for, despite their several earlier tête-à-tête. So he was content, there, her in his embrace - even though, really, it was her spirit embracing his. He would later idly reflect that the last time they had held each other, the positions they kept were reversed. The difference a few months could make in a person was incredible.
Eventually, though, as all good things must do, Ryden released Genevieve as he once more became cognisant of the pair of children standing together. He regarded after blinking away the tears from his eyes, pondering their existence and their presence.
That ponderance led him to an interesting conclusion.
He sighed. "They're Renaux and Arianne's children, aren't they? Voltaire and Gabrielle?"
If he was right, he was concerned. Their presence could complicate things for all of them.
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Lady Genevieve St. James
Dedicated
Enchantress & Entrepreneur
Roleplay posts: 489
Age: mid-30s.
Physical Description: Her hair is sunshine gold, her skin is peaches and creme, and her eyes are periwinkle, sometimes lilac, sometimes blue. She has a comely body that is not too curvy and not too slim, and a height that is not too tall and not too petite. A beauty mark marks her cheek just below her left eye.
· · · · · ·
Clothes and Equipment: Genevieve is always clothed handsomely, although not ornately, and uses good fabrics for her well-fit and well-made clothes. She wears a long necklace, the thin golden chain easily visible but the pendant itself is usually tucked beneath her bodice, unseen. In the well-hidden pockets of the full skirts of her gowns, she usually has odds and ends hidden away.
Allegiances: Isra, Aozora, Gauldin
Registered: Nov 28, 2015 11:03:51 GMT -8
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Post by Lady Genevieve St. James on Jan 11, 2018 16:23:53 GMT -8
Her own eyes didn't glisten -- Genevieve was through with crying, or so she told herself -- but Ryden could see how her heart ached with his, could see how she felt like she was home when she was near him... A feeling that she'd had since their first dinner.
Her thumbs were gentle as they smoothed under his eyes, a hopeful smile ever so gently turning her generous mouth.
"Tante Genevieve?" a little boy's voice asked and she turned to look back at the children, lowering one hand to gesture for them to come closer.
"Oui," she answered Ryden, her voice softer now. She gracefully lowered into a crouch, her soft skirt billowing out for a moment as the children stood near her. "Arianne and Reneaux... They are still fighting for Gauldin," Genevieve said. Her hand brushed through Voltaire's hair.
"Maman is very brave," said Gabrielle, clutching at Genevieve but looking up at Ryden as if waiting for the man to confirm it.
"What is going to happen now?" Voltaire asked, vague distrust of Ryden edged in his voice.
"Dinner, I imagine," Genevieve said as she came to a stand again and looked at Ryden. They needed to speak and have words, but it was likely better to do it without little eyes and ears present.
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Ryden Greyiron
Dedicated
Chancellor of Isra
Roleplay posts: 226
Age: 42
Physical Description: Taller than most at 6'4, with relatively short, steel-grey hair, and a well-groomed, dignified moustache and beard, Ryden Greyiron would have been considered handsome, once upon a time, and still might be by some, but stress and worry has gotten to him over the years, and more than anything, he looks weary. With well-defined, prominent cheekbones, a strong-set jaw, and a proud nose, he looks every part the stately nobleman he professes to be. His dark blue eyes are filled with a solemn and calculative consideration of everything around him. He has the lean and muscular body of a great swordsman not long out of their prime, and his movements show it - they are graceful, yet dignified, confident and determined.
Clothes and Equipment: Ryden is generally only seen in his engraved armor. His armour is an assembly of intricately engraved detail and runic symbols in equal measures. With his long and flowing grey cloak, he creates a distinctive impression of gravitas in all situations. His preferred weapon, a hand-and-a-half sword, is rather unusual. The hilt is worn and weathered with battle, and seems to be ancient, and yet the blade gleams and shimmers in the slightest of light as though it emerged from the flames of a forge only yesterday. The blade's edge is razor sharp, and appears to have never needed sharpening. His armour and sword both possess a degree of enchantment, but the extent of which is unknown, even to him.
Registered: Apr 30, 2016 16:46:48 GMT -8
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Post by Ryden Greyiron on Jan 15, 2018 6:12:44 GMT -8
Ryden remained sitting on the wing of the chair watching how Genevieve interacted with the children, something... strange stirring in his chest. She spoke to them in a tender, motherly way. Something she must be altogether too familiar with, he realised in a sad way, a bitter taste in his mouth.
When little Gabrielle looked up at Ryden, though, he crouched down beside Genevieve, wrapping his arm across her back -- ostensibly for balance, but realistically for support of a non-physical nature.
"Oui," he said, his Gallic pronunciation excellent, if barely tinged with an unfamiliar accent, "your maman and papa are doing a good job, and are very brave."
If foolish... he thought to himself, but some things were best left unsaid.
"You are very right. Mathys will take you little ones to dinner in the upstairs dining room. Mathys?" Raising his voice, Ryden called for Picard, who pushed open the door, smiling brightly.
"How may I help, sir?" Picard enquired politely, smiling at the young ones accompanying Genevieve, pleased to see them again.
"Would you be so kind as to take the children up to the Red Room and serve them a meal of their choosing? We will join you soon." Ryden said, nodding his head in thanks at Picard, who took the appearance of the chancellor in his stride. Clearly, he was familiar with the arrangements.
"Of course. Etienne? Marie Therese? Would you like to join me for something to eat?" Picard opened the door wider, allowing them to come out past him.
Ryden watched Picard and the children as they presumably exited, before sighing in relief as the door closed behind them, wandering across the room to collapse on one of the settees, room spare for Genevieve to sit beside him, or in one of the single chairs across the coffee table.
"So." The word carried precisely the amount of weight one would imagine it would, the intentions behind it hanging in the empty, quiet room.
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Lady Genevieve St. James
Dedicated
Enchantress & Entrepreneur
Roleplay posts: 489
Age: mid-30s.
Physical Description: Her hair is sunshine gold, her skin is peaches and creme, and her eyes are periwinkle, sometimes lilac, sometimes blue. She has a comely body that is not too curvy and not too slim, and a height that is not too tall and not too petite. A beauty mark marks her cheek just below her left eye.
· · · · · ·
Clothes and Equipment: Genevieve is always clothed handsomely, although not ornately, and uses good fabrics for her well-fit and well-made clothes. She wears a long necklace, the thin golden chain easily visible but the pendant itself is usually tucked beneath her bodice, unseen. In the well-hidden pockets of the full skirts of her gowns, she usually has odds and ends hidden away.
Allegiances: Isra, Aozora, Gauldin
Registered: Nov 28, 2015 11:03:51 GMT -8
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Post by Lady Genevieve St. James on Jan 15, 2018 8:44:18 GMT -8
Gabrielle smiled shyly as Ryden crouched down beside Genevieve, but Etienne noticed how the older man touched the woman who had been like a mother to him for the last several months, and would continue to be so until his real mother returned.
Genevieve noticed the guarded look in his face and she reached out to hold his hand, giving it a gentle squeeze as Ryden spoke to Gabrielle, then called for Mathys.
At the news that they would be separated from Genevieve, panic was bright in their eyes. "Non--" "Tante--"
"Sh, sh, sh, sh," Genevieve said to them and shifted to be on her knees near them, Ryden's hand sweeping down the silk of her graceful back as she moved. She drew both of the children in and hugged them close, her voice dropping to a quiet octave as she spoke to them.
They nodded quietly to her words, and Gabrielle stumbled through her own argument, "b-but the war is--" she began in Gauldish, only to be quieted by Genevieve.
It took a few minutes while Ryden and Mathys stood watch, but eventually the children smiled at Genevieve and she smiled back, cupping each of their faces. Voltaire took Gabrielle's hand and they turned to leave with Mathys.
When they were gone, Genevieve sighed heavily and rose to stand again. "I hate what that stupid war has done to them. If I could throttle Arianne and Renaux, I would," Genevieve said, her own frustration evident.
She turned to look at Ryden, her Noble beauty there just for him. A smile, just for him, and she moved to him, the Chancellor and the Seamstress.
"Ryden, are you really alright? After what happened in Quying?" The golden-haired woman sat beside him, her knees beneath her skirt draped against his, and her hand seeking his own, a touch that she had been hesitant with before they had parted and now seemed to want to gift him.
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Ryden Greyiron
Dedicated
Chancellor of Isra
Roleplay posts: 226
Age: 42
Physical Description: Taller than most at 6'4, with relatively short, steel-grey hair, and a well-groomed, dignified moustache and beard, Ryden Greyiron would have been considered handsome, once upon a time, and still might be by some, but stress and worry has gotten to him over the years, and more than anything, he looks weary. With well-defined, prominent cheekbones, a strong-set jaw, and a proud nose, he looks every part the stately nobleman he professes to be. His dark blue eyes are filled with a solemn and calculative consideration of everything around him. He has the lean and muscular body of a great swordsman not long out of their prime, and his movements show it - they are graceful, yet dignified, confident and determined.
Clothes and Equipment: Ryden is generally only seen in his engraved armor. His armour is an assembly of intricately engraved detail and runic symbols in equal measures. With his long and flowing grey cloak, he creates a distinctive impression of gravitas in all situations. His preferred weapon, a hand-and-a-half sword, is rather unusual. The hilt is worn and weathered with battle, and seems to be ancient, and yet the blade gleams and shimmers in the slightest of light as though it emerged from the flames of a forge only yesterday. The blade's edge is razor sharp, and appears to have never needed sharpening. His armour and sword both possess a degree of enchantment, but the extent of which is unknown, even to him.
Registered: Apr 30, 2016 16:46:48 GMT -8
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Post by Ryden Greyiron on Jan 16, 2018 6:14:55 GMT -8
They were alone, and his smile dropped.
A man who was by all accounts decisive and clear with his emotions, thoughts, and feelings, looked nothing more than pensive and frightened, amplified when Genevieve asked a question he had longed to hear someone — anyone — ask him. From her, the question was far more important, and in a way, far sadder to answer.
He leant forward, not seeing her hand reach for his as his own fingers steepled, holding his head up as he thought about the most truthful answer to the question presented to him that he could give.
“No.”
He was quiet, and sounded weak. It was a far cry from the anger that flashed earlier. It was, in a way, pathetic to see that a man of such influence and sometimes such power was, in this situation, so powerless under someone else’s influence.
“I can’t sleep any more. Not properly, at least. I drink the tea, I go through the motions, and still, I probably get no more than three hours of sleep a night. Those are laced with terrors and nightmares, anyway. Memories, too, and they... are the worst of all.”
His voice was rasping, like metal drawn across stone, or cutlery across china. It sounded holllow, too. Dehumanised and depersonalised - as if he were retelling something he shouldn’t need to.
“I see their knives when I close my eyes — and other, worse tools. Tools that I could never describe again. Or will never. Does the distinction really matter?”
“Dammit!” he said, slamming his hands down from his face to his thighs, revealing the barely-visible traces of tears running down his face, “I see them in the corner of every room! I can’t pick up silverware without my hands shaking!”
He turned his head, looking at Genevieve, an abject misery and wretchedness evident on his face that was so well disguised from the children. “How is this fair? I’ve been through so much. Why does this happen to me’
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Lady Genevieve St. James
Dedicated
Enchantress & Entrepreneur
Roleplay posts: 489
Age: mid-30s.
Physical Description: Her hair is sunshine gold, her skin is peaches and creme, and her eyes are periwinkle, sometimes lilac, sometimes blue. She has a comely body that is not too curvy and not too slim, and a height that is not too tall and not too petite. A beauty mark marks her cheek just below her left eye.
· · · · · ·
Clothes and Equipment: Genevieve is always clothed handsomely, although not ornately, and uses good fabrics for her well-fit and well-made clothes. She wears a long necklace, the thin golden chain easily visible but the pendant itself is usually tucked beneath her bodice, unseen. In the well-hidden pockets of the full skirts of her gowns, she usually has odds and ends hidden away.
Allegiances: Isra, Aozora, Gauldin
Registered: Nov 28, 2015 11:03:51 GMT -8
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Post by Lady Genevieve St. James on Jan 18, 2018 20:18:20 GMT -8
She was quiet as he mourned, drawing her hand back from where she might have taken his when it was obvious he was so focused on his pain that he didn't, for this moment, notice the comfort that was near him.
Genevieve was quiet but steady, her sapphire blue eyes watching as emotions traced his face -- fear, desperation, misery, frustration -- and he finally turned to look at her, looking more aged and more tired than she'd even realized.
Quietly she leaned toward him, reaching out with her palm down... Until she turned her wrist upwards where the dainty pearls of her well made sleeve were located. Her slender, manicured fingertips of her other hand gently undid them, and pulled away her sleeve where the jagged, ugly scar she'd inflicted on herself some years ago now mottled her skin.
Other than herself, Ryden had been the only other person to touch it. To feel it. To know it's weight and burden. The blonde woman that sat beside him gentle rested her wrist on his knee, then reached for him with her other hand, a comforting caress against the top expanse of his shoulders, a soothing comb of her fingers through the hair at the nape of his neck.
"I know, Ryden," she said quietly to him. "I know the nightmares, although perhaps I don't know the pain you endured... But it won't last. It can't last. You will see -- day by day, things will get better. Become better. Moment by moment, you will become strong again," the enchantress said in flowing, beautiful Gauldish, her words murmured before her lips brushed quietly, warmly, softly over his cheek in a simple kiss...
And perhaps it was magic. Perhaps it was just her. Perhaps it was something else. Whatever it was, something -- some small little seed of hope, some miniscule little silver line, some infintismal Ray of sunshine might have crept quietly through the pain and the misery and the trauma, barely anything, and yet... Something.
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Ryden Greyiron
Dedicated
Chancellor of Isra
Roleplay posts: 226
Age: 42
Physical Description: Taller than most at 6'4, with relatively short, steel-grey hair, and a well-groomed, dignified moustache and beard, Ryden Greyiron would have been considered handsome, once upon a time, and still might be by some, but stress and worry has gotten to him over the years, and more than anything, he looks weary. With well-defined, prominent cheekbones, a strong-set jaw, and a proud nose, he looks every part the stately nobleman he professes to be. His dark blue eyes are filled with a solemn and calculative consideration of everything around him. He has the lean and muscular body of a great swordsman not long out of their prime, and his movements show it - they are graceful, yet dignified, confident and determined.
Clothes and Equipment: Ryden is generally only seen in his engraved armor. His armour is an assembly of intricately engraved detail and runic symbols in equal measures. With his long and flowing grey cloak, he creates a distinctive impression of gravitas in all situations. His preferred weapon, a hand-and-a-half sword, is rather unusual. The hilt is worn and weathered with battle, and seems to be ancient, and yet the blade gleams and shimmers in the slightest of light as though it emerged from the flames of a forge only yesterday. The blade's edge is razor sharp, and appears to have never needed sharpening. His armour and sword both possess a degree of enchantment, but the extent of which is unknown, even to him.
Registered: Apr 30, 2016 16:46:48 GMT -8
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Post by Ryden Greyiron on Jan 21, 2018 6:12:00 GMT -8
That single spark of magic - or Genevieve - coursed into Ryden -- strengthening him not with hope, but with resolve. It was a resolve of steel, rigidly firm in the belief that everything would end up alright in the end. It was not an optimistic outlook - not one filled with hope or faith or buoyancy or cheer - oh no, he was cynical at best. But he was a cynic resolved to his purpose, and he would discharge that duty to the best of his ability.
"Perhaps," he said in Gauldish, like Genevieve. He liked speaking in her language when she did. "Or... perhaps not. But I cannot spend all my life ruminating on the damage of the past. There is too much ahead to give up on the sentimentalities behind."
He had relaxed at her touch, a sliver of the tension pent up in the muscles that lined his torso slackening. Taking the hand she laid upon his thigh up between his own hands, he gently ran a finger along the triad of scars that traced up her wrist like farrows ploughed through soil. His voice had a strange note of uncertainty to it - while he was confident and clear in his plan to return to Isra, his future with Genevieve was nothing so certain.
"What happens now? Between us?"
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